We all go through our day-to-day lives tolerating things that stress us out. To make things worse, we have been doing this for so long, that we don’t even notice it anymore. Stress is man-made, and we can make changes in our lives to live a more stress-free life, and a happier one at that. Here is a list of 20 things you’ve been tolerating for too long, and some helpful solutions to take away the stress they have been causing.

1. Tolerating comparing yourself to others.

Comparing ourselves to others is very common. It is natural to want to know how we are doing in comparison to others, but this often leads to unneeded stress. We tend to focus on superstar athletes, billionaire business owners, or celebrities–people we perceive to be more successful than us. However, it is important to remember that the success of others does not reflect our own failures. Instead, compare yourself to who you were a few years ago, and examine your progress. Use your progress as motivation and inspiration to achieve your current goals.

2. Tolerating an unhealthy lifestyle.

Many people live an unhealthy life, and this leads to shorter lifespan and serious health risks. An unhealthy lifestyle can also cause extreme stress and lower self-confidence. A healthy lifestyle can be intimidating and challenging, but it is important to begin small–any positive change to your lifestyle will make a difference. It is important to seek help and support from others, and to celebrate small successes.

3. Tolerating dwelling on the past.

It is hard not to dwell on things that have happened in the past, but it is important to learn from those experiences and move forward. By dwelling on the past, we can miss out on current experiences. Instead, focus on the now and the future. Learn from your past experiences, but do not let them hold you back.

4. Tolerating keeping people around who aren’t real friends.

Friendships should be supportive, positive and genuine. If a friendship is no longer contributing to your life in a positive way, then it is important to end that relationship. Do not tolerate people who cause more stress than relief in your life. Focus on spending time with those who make you a better person and those who contribute to your life in positive ways.

5. Tolerating dishonesty.

Honesty is important in any relationship. Knowing someone has been dishonest leads to mistrust, and can cause stress. It is also important to be honest with yourself. Instead of telling lies, tell the truth and hold others accountable. In the end, the truth will always set you free.

6. Tolerating negativity.

Negativity can ruin experiences and hurt relationships. Instead, focus on positivity. Forming habits that focus on positivity will lead to happier, less stressful lifestyle.

7. Tolerating not appreciating what you have.

It is easy to focus on what might happen in the future and forget to appreciate what we have right now. Take time to appreciate the things in life that bring you happiness and joy, and focus on being present in the moment.

8. Tolerating being focused on your future for happiness.

When we hope that tomorrow will be a better day, we miss out on being happy today. Instead, focus on how you can make today better. Do not push off happiness until tomorrow.

9. Tolerating procrastination.

Procrastination only leads to stress and last-minute deadlines. Instead, give yourself more time to accomplish tasks. By doing this, you will have less stress and find yourself less likely to procrastinate in the first place.

10. Tolerating letting previous failures define you.

Everyone has experienced failure or rejection at some point, but it is important to learn from those experiences and use them as motivation to succeed. Do not let your failures hold you back or define you.

11. Tolerating not being true to yourself.

When we are not true to ourselves, it causes extreme stress. It is important to always stand up for who you are and what you believe in. Staying true to yourself will take a world of stress off of you.

12. Tolerating holding onto grudges.

Holding onto a grudge causes negative energy and stress. Instead, try to forgive the person and let go of that negative energy. It can be difficult to forget, but moving forward in your life and leaving the negative energy behind you is important.

13. Tolerating excuses.

Making excuses is a common way of avoiding situations we do not want to deal with. Instead, be honest and own up to your choices and actions.

14. Tolerating excessive social media use.

Social media can cause stress and anxiety. It is important to limit excessive use and take a break from it when needed.

15. Tolerating negativity in the news.

It is important to stay informed, but too much negativity in the news can cause stress and anxiety. Take a break and focus on positive news.

16. Tolerating toxic thoughts.

Toxic thoughts can cause extreme stress and can take over our lives. Instead, focus on positive thoughts and try to change negative thoughts into positive ones.

17. Tolerating overextending yourself.

It is important to know your limits and not overextend yourself. Saying no when needed is important in avoiding excessive stress and anxiety.

18. Tolerating bad habits.

Bad habits can lead to increased stress and anxiety. It is important to identify bad habits and work to change them.

19. Tolerating not taking enough breaks.

It is important to take breaks and allow your mind to rest. Taking a small break, even for just a few minutes, can reduce stress and help you focus better.

20. Tolerating not asking for help.

It is important to ask for help when needed. Trying to handle everything on your own can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Instead, seek out support and ask for help when needed.

In conclusion, by identifying and addressing the things in our lives that cause stress, we can live a happier, more fulfilling life. It is important to take small steps towards change and seek support and help when needed. By focusing on positivity, self-care, and personal growth, we can reduce stress and live our best lives.